Shipping Alkaline Batteries Internationally

Batteries power a lot of the electronics we use everyday, from wristwatches to smoke detectors and key fobs. But shipping these batteries internationally is not as simple as one would think.

Lithium batteries are considered dangerous goods and must be packed, declared and shipped according to the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations. This means they can only be sent by cargo aircraft.

Safety

Whether shipping one battery or a palletized load of batteries, or a device that uses them, the safety of the cargo — and those who handle it along the supply chain — depends on compliance with a stack of government regulations and carrier restrictions. These requirements are particularly stringent for lithium batteries and equipment containing them.

Unlike alkaline batteries used around the house, lithium batteries containing metallic lithium or lithium-metal have a flammable electrolyte and incredibly high energy density. That makes them dangerous to ship and susceptible to overheating and igniting during long voyages if not properly packed. When that happens, the result can be a large thermal event, with potential for significant fires or explosions in adjacent cargo.

For this reason, shipping lithium cells and batteries internationally requires the shipment to pass a series of safety tests known as UN 38.3. This test consists of height simulation, thermal, impact and vibration testing. Depending on the type of batteries and their application, manufacturers may take care of this certification for customers.

It’s also important to protect the terminals of each battery by wrapping them in insulation or using a non-conductive material to prevent short circuiting. This international shipping lithium batteries is especially important since it’s common for a terminal to be exposed when batteries are separated. In addition, batteries should not come into contact with metal objects, as this can cause a spark that could lead to fire.

Regulations

Those who sell electronic products that use batteries must understand the shipping regulations that must be followed. This is especially important when shipping lithium batteries installed within or packed with equipment. The International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) guidelines must be followed.

Alkaline batteries generate $6 billion to $7 billion in annual revenues globally, and their widespread usage in developed regions is expected to propel the market’s growth. In addition, the environment-friendly nature of these batteries is anticipated to increase their demand in developing countries. In fact, the newer alkaline batteries made by almost all major manufacturers are mercury-free and therefore, can be disposed as regular domestic waste rather than requiring active collection and recycling.

In contrast, rechargeable consumer batteries need to be collected and recycled. This can be a challenge for e-commerce businesses that ship these batteries. Regardless, the shipment of lithium batteries must comply with the rules outlined in the Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) Regulations.

In addition, the state of charge must be accurately measured, which can be challenging with lithium batteries because it requires a sophisticated Coulomb counting technique. The easiest way to ensure the accuracy of a state of charge is to purchase factory fresh cells or batteries from reputable suppliers who are aware of current shipping requirements. This will help reduce the time and expense associated with re-testing batteries once they arrive at the destination.

Packaging

Many types of batteries are considered hazardous materials and require specialized packaging to protect the batteries. This is because batteries contain corrosive or toxic materials that could cause a health and safety hazard if the battery is damaged, creating a potential evolution of heat or sparks. It is essential to consult a manufacturer’s Material Safety Data Sheet or other relevant documents to obtain the specific requirements for each battery type to determine how it should be packaged for safe shipment.

Alkaline zinc-manganese dioxide batteries are commonly used in a variety of electrical devices, including handy audiovisual equipments, still digital cameras, strobe cameras, shavers, portable liquid crystal TVs and office-use appliances. They have a number of unique characteristics, including the ability to withstand heavy load continuous discharge and long storage life. Additionally, these batteries are designed to be able to withstand low-temperature discharge and have high discharging capacity.

These batteries are typically packaged in a plastic bag with a sealable flap to ensure that the contents remain insulated and protected from physical damage. They are also international shipping lithium batteries often potted, which means that they are encapsulated in a resin or polymer to provide additional protection and insulation.

The right freight forwarder can help with shipping batteries internationally by following strict government and carrier regulations to ensure the package is safe for transportation. They can also ensure that the correct labels and Dangerous Goods Shipper’s Declaration are attached to the packaging, which is crucial for avoiding rejection by carriers.

Freight Forwarders

A freight forwarder with a lot of experience shipping hazardous materials like batteries will have a much easier time getting your shipment accepted and delivered. If you go with a less-experienced provider, your shipments could be rejected by carriers or delayed in customs, which will hurt your business and leave customers waiting for their products.

Whether you are shipping a single battery or a palletized load of them, it is crucial that you comply with a stack of government regulations and carrier requirements. The safety of your package and those who handle it along the way depends on it.

All lithium cells and batteries, including rechargeable lithium ion batteries found in smartphones, tablets and electric vehicles, are considered Class 9 Dangerous Goods. However, non-rechargeable lithium metal batteries are also classified as Class 9. These are generally one-time use batteries used in items like wristwatches, smoke detectors and key fobs.

All batteries must be labelled with their proper UN number, shipping name, class or division and packing group. They should also be properly crated, labelled and packed in an outer container that has a UN specification leakproof liner. Exceptions to these rules are rare. If you have questions about which battery type you need to ship or the specifics of your packaging, consult with your freight forwarder. They can help you determine which batteries are acceptable for air or ocean shipping, as well as the most efficient ways to get them from your factory to your customers.